University of Canterbury / Creative New Zealand
A paid writing residency at the University of Canterbury for published NZ writers to pursue a fiction, poetry, scriptwriting or creative non-fiction project.
The Ursula Bethell Writer in Residence is a prestigious position jointly funded by Creative New Zealand and the University of Canterbury, hosted within the English Department, School of Humanities. The residency supports a published New Zealand writer to pursue an approved writing project — or projects — in fiction, poetry, scriptwriting, or creative non-fiction, in an academic environment.
The successful writer will spend time at the University of Canterbury developing their work, while also contributing to the wider academic and cultural community. This includes being available one hour per week during term to advise students, participating in public programmes and events on behalf of the English Department, and acknowledging the University and Creative New Zealand at any public events connected with the residency.
At the conclusion of the residency, the writer provides a written evaluation of their experience and the extent to which their writing goals were achieved.
Who can apply:
Applicants must be published writers with work produced or published by a reputable publisher or producer. Appointments are made on the merit of the proposed writing project. A commitment to UC values, Te Tiriti o Waitangi, and te ao Māori is valued; competency in te reo Māori me ōna tikanga is an advantage.
Who is not eligible:
The salary is negotiable and offered on an Individual Employment Agreement. A Bachelor's degree (NZQA Level 7) or equivalent is preferred but not essential.
